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MULTIHORMONAL ISLET CELL CARCINOMAS IN THREE KOMODO DRAGONS (VARANUS KOMODOENSIS)
Summary
Multihormonal pancreatic islet cell carcinomas were diagnosed in three geriatric Komodo dragons. These tumors, expressing glucagon and somatostatin, present with lethargy and anorexia in these large lizards.
Area of Science:
- Comparative Pathology
- Herpetology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Pancreatic islet cell neoplasms are rare in reptiles.
- Geriatric Komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis) may be susceptible to endocrine disorders.
Observation:
- Three captive geriatric Komodo dragons presented with lethargy, weakness, and anorexia.
- Gross pancreatic changes were observed in two individuals.
- Histopathology revealed well-differentiated, infiltrating islet cell tumors.
Findings:
- All tumors exhibited multihormone expression, predominantly glucagon and somatostatin.
- Tumors infiltrated surrounding pancreatic acinar tissue but showed no metastasis.
- Neoplastic cells displayed characteristic features of well-differentiated islet cells.
Implications:
- Pancreatic islet cell neoplasms should be considered in the differential diagnosis for ill Komodo dragons.
- This study highlights the potential for endocrine tumors in aging Komodo dragons.
- Further research into reptilian pancreatic tumors is warranted.